Sorghum Anatomy

Sorghum Anatomy

Grain sorghum is an annual grass similar in appearance to maize (corn), although it has more tillers (stems) and more finely branched roots (2, 3, 10). If the main panicle is damaged, branches can produce grain (2).

Wild sorghum is a tall plant of 5-7 feet. Through breeding efforts newer varieties now have 2-3 dwarf genes, resulting in a plant 2-4 feet tall and easier to harvest (1, 2, 3, 10). Waxy leaves that roll when moisture stressed help the plant to be more drought resistant than other grains (3, 10).

On the panicle the spikelets are in pairs and bear white, yellow and brown grains. The browner seeds are higher in tannins (2).